California lawmakers have advanced legislation aimed at protecting survivors of the devastating Eaton Fire in Altadena from opportunistic developers. Senate Bill 1090, which unanimously passed the state Senate, would temporarily exempt Altadena from state zoning laws that permit multi-unit development on lots previously occupied by single-family homes.
State Sen. Sasha Renee Perez, the bill's author, stated that the legislation is crucial to allow displaced homeowners time to rebuild without facing pressure from investors seeking to profit from the destruction. "These survivors are asking for time to rebuild our community," Perez said. "I want to be crystal clear. These laws were not intended to rebuild a community that has been devastated by fire or a natural disaster."
The Eaton Fire, which occurred on January 7, 2025, scorched nearly 15,000 acres and destroyed thousands of structures in Altadena and Pasadena, including an estimated 6,000 single-family homes in Altadena alone.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, a sponsor of the bill, emphasized that the legislation provides a safeguard against "opportunistic lot splits while recovery is underway." She added, "Altadena’s future should be shaped by the people who have long called it home and not by outside interests looking to capitalize on a tragedy."
Residents expressed their determination to rebuild their community while preserving its character. Laura Berthold Monteros, an Altadena resident, shared the emotional toll of the fire, stating, "I and most displaced Altadenans lost almost every single thing we owned... Yet, we want to come back. We cannot stand the additional gut punch and shattering emotions of losing our community to robber barons."
Another resident, Ania Haigwood, highlighted the desire for protections similar to those granted to survivors of the Pacific Palisades Fire, who received rebuilding protections due to their neighborhood's designation as a high fire severity zone. Altadena did not receive this classification.
In parallel with the legislative efforts, recovery in Altadena is becoming visible. A modular accessory dwelling unit, built by Team AB Builds, was recently installed on the site of the former Bunny Museum, which was destroyed in the fire. This demonstration home aims to showcase modular construction as a method to expedite rebuilding.
SB 1090 will now move to the Assembly Local Government Committee for consideration. If approved, it will proceed to a full Assembly vote before reaching the desk of Gov. Gavin Newsom for a final decision.